How to get there, what to eat outside the fest and other know-before-you-go information for Lollapalooza 2012

How to get thereLooking for directions? Check TOC's Lolla map for bike racks and valets, Metra train stops for out-of-town commuters, and parking lots. Drivers willing to carpool should head to Lollapalooza's Zimride network to save money.

Metra is offering extra service for Lolla, but bicycles are prohibited on Metra trains Friday through Sunday, and alcoholic beverages are not allowed after 7pm Friday.

If you're traveling from within city limits, take the CTA Pink, Green, Orange, Purple, or Brown Line to Adams/Wabash. Red Line riders should get off at Monroe or Jackson. Also, these bus routes will take you right to Grant Park: 1, 3, 4, 6, 7, 10, 14, 26, X28, 126, 145, 146, and 147. Biking is another easy option for city travelers. There is an Active Transportation Alliance bike valet located on the southeast corner of Lake Shore and Monroe. Also, there are bike racks on Columbus Drive between Congress and Balbo, and at the McDonald’s Cycle Center in Millennium Park. If you don’t own a bike, bike rentals are available at Bike and Roll Chicago for a discounted price.

In-and-out policyIf you scored a three-day ticket to Lollapalooza this year, your wristband gets you reentry should you wander off for your own taste of Chicago. Sorry, single-day ticket-holders—you won't be allowed reentry. Check out our map for spots near Grant Park for dinner (blue), lunch (red) or drinks (yellow).

The following items are NOT ALLOWED at Lollapalooza:Weapons of any kind, including fireworks or explosives of any kind, illegal or illicit substances of any kind, large backpacks (framed, hiking backpacks, etc.), glass containers and metal aerosol cans, including sunscreen in aerosol cans. Outside food or drinks (including alcohol), except two factory-sealed water bottles (up to one liter each), skateboards, scooters or personal motorized vehicles, bicycles inside festival grounds (plenty of bike racks are available near the box office). Carts, tents & chairs of any kind, hard-sided coolers, pets (except service dogs), professional recording (photo, video, audio) equipment (NO detachable zoom lens, tripods or other commerical equipment). No unauthorized/unlicensed vendors allowed. No unauthorized solicitations, handbills, sampling, give-aways, etc.

Lost and found During the festival, look for lost items at the Information/Lost & Found booths. After the festival, fill out this form. Valuables will be held for 30 days and then donated to a local charity. Parkways Foundation and C3 Presents will not be held liable for any unclaimed items.